Things To Do
in Desamparados
Desamparados is a bustling canton just southeast of San José, where urban life meets mountain views. Its neighborhoods blend markets, cafés, and green spaces, all within easy reach of the capital's amenities. The area is known for lively street life, affordable dining, and a strong sense of community.
With rapid transit connections and easy access to national parks, it's a convenient base for exploring central Costa Rica.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in San Jose International Airport and make your way to Desamparados, a charming town known for its warm community and picturesque surroundings. Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican breakfast at a local soda, savoring the flavors of gallo pinto and fresh fruit. Check in to your accommodation and take a leisurely stroll to get a feel for the vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the central park of Desamparados, where you can see locals mingling and children playing. Explore small shops selling handmade crafts and local produce, immersing yourself in the daily life of the residents. Grab a bite to eat at a nearby cafe, trying out some Costa Rican coffee.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that specializes in Costa Rican dishes. Engage with friendly locals and other travelers to share experiences and recommendations. End the evening with a night walk around the town, experiencing the peaceful ambiance.
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading out to the nearby Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo for a morning hike. With lush greenery and diverse wildlife, the trails offer invigorating views and opportunities for bird watching. Bring along a guide to learn more about the local flora and fauna as you trek through the forest.
Return to Desamparados for lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, enjoying fresh ingredients sourced from local farms. In the afternoon, visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where you can see stunning waterfalls and engage with a variety of wildlife exhibits, including toucans and sloths. Spend some time taking photographs and appreciating the beauty of nature.
After a long day outdoors, dine at a traditional restaurant in Desamparados, sampling local favorites like ceviche and tamales. Relax at your accommodation or explore the nightlife of the town, which may include live music or local festivities. Enjoy a peaceful night, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local transit ride | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍹Cocktail at bar | $5-8 |
| 🛍️Souvenir/pack of local crafts | $3-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to San José with easy access to markets, parks, and transit
- Affordability and friendly, welcoming locals
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Nightlife is more low-key compared to central San José
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¡Pura Vida!" - Pure Life — a friendly greeting or response
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Desamparados
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively urban square with colorful storefronts, locals at work and play, and ongoing activity that makes for dynamic street photography.
A traditional church with architectural details and a serene exterior perfect for architectural and candid shots.
A viewpoint on the surrounding hills offering sweeping views of the Central Valley and city skyline at golden hour.
Food in Desamparados
Desamparados Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple of beans and rice, typically served with eggs, tortillas or plantains; best enjoyed at a soda or home-style eatery.
Must-Try!
A comforting beef and vegetable stew ideal for cooler days; look for it in local sodas and family-run restaurants.
A complete Costa Rican plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a protein; widely available at casual eateries.
A flavorful black bean soup often served with hard-boiled egg and rice; great for a light, comforting meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market area with fruit stalls, fresh produce, and affordable street bites—a perfect place to observe daily life and sample snacks.
Various stalls near the market and main avenues offering empanadas, fried plantains, fresh fruit cups, and small treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola or buenos días; Costa Ricans value politeness and warmth in conversations.
Embrace the phrase Pura Vida as a lifestyle—polite small talk, patience, and positivity go a long way.
Casual yet neat attire is typical for daily life; punctuality is appreciated, but a relaxed pace is common in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Desamparados
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in casual eateries. A 5-10% tip in restaurants is common if service is good; cash tips are always welcomed.
Cash in Costa Rican colones and widely accepted US dollars are common in markets and casual places. Credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and many shops; ATMs are available in towns and near San José.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny to warm days with lower humidity and clear skies, ideal for outdoor sightseeing and photography. Pack sun protection and stay hydrated.
Frequent showers and high humidity; afternoons can bring heavy rain. Carry a compact rain jacket and a weatherproof bag for gear; expect lush greenery and dramatic skies.
Desamparados at Night
Hiking in Desamparados
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hikes from Desamparados with city views and forested paths suitable for a half-day outing.
Short drives to hillside trails offering panoramic Central Valley views and verdant scenery.
Requires a longer drive but offers rainforest trails, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife for dedicated hikers.
Airports
How to reach Desamparados by plane.
Main international gateway serving the San José area, about 25-30 km from Desamparados; reachable by bus, taxi, or rideshare.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families, students, and workers forming the everyday community of Desamparados.
A presence that adds cultural diversity to the canton through markets, cuisine, and daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The sport most widely followed and played; you’ll see local leagues, informal games, and community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Desamparados.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common at sodas and markets; look for bean dishes, plantains, rice, and fresh salads. When in doubt, ask for a veggie casado or gallo pinto with extra vegetables.